McDonnell is asking the 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals to reverse a judge's decision denying bail while he appeals his convictions.

In a response filed late Wednesday, prosecutors said McDonnell's claim that the judge defined an "official act" too broadly doesn't present a close question that is likely to result in reversal of his convictions.

A jury last year found McDonnell and his wife Maureen guilty of taking gifts and loans from a vitamin executive in exchange for promoting his products.

Bob McDonnell is scheduled to begin his two-year prison term Feb. 9. Maureen McDonnell will be sentenced Feb. 20.